The Islands

With miles of winding coastline, stunning paradise beaches and fascinating rare wildlife, Scotland’s islands are a treasure trove of natural wonders.

There may be no UCI World Championships taking place off the mainland, but Scotland’s many islands are the perfect places to make your own adventure. Set off

Fast Fact

Foot passengers pay less for ferry travel than cars, and most companies will let you take the bike on board for free.

on an epic trip north to Orkney and the Shetland Isles, spend a few days exploring the Outer Hebrides or take a day trip to Skye or Arran. Wherever you go, you’re guaranteed the most romantic vistas and unforgettable rides.

MUST-DO

If you’re as fascinated by history as you are by cycling, Scotland’s Northern Isles are well worth the journey, with some of the world’s oldest architecture and magnificent archaeological sites. On Orkney, discover the wonderful character of Kirkwall and Stromness and don’t miss the extraordinary causeways of the Churchill Barriers, while the wilds of

Fast Fact

This won’t be the first Individual Time Trial held in Stirling. Chris Boardman won the Individual Time Trial as part of the PruTour here in 1998.

As well as the nearby Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, there are plenty of opportunities to get on your bike in and around Stirling. And there’s something for every ability, from the quiet country roads of the Teith Valley to the stunning scenery of the Loch Katrine loop to the more challenging Cambusbarron and North Third trails.

far-flung Shetland are well worth the trip.

MUST-SEE

As magical as it is daunting, the dramatic landscape of Skye has to be seen to be appreciated. Travel offseason for the well-trodden tourist trail taking in Dunvegan Castle and the Fairy Pools, or get away from it all by climbing the Cuillins or taking a ferry to the deserted beaches of Raasay.

MUST-RIDE

For serious riders, the Hebridean Way offers an irresistible challenge. Spanning the length of the Outer Hebrides island chain, the epic long-distance route is 185 miles long, but you can tackle a shorter section such as Vatersay to Barra, which takes in some of Scotland’s most stunning beaches. For a more easily accessible cycling adventure, hop across to Arran where the diverse mountain and forest landscapes have led it to be described as a miniature Scotland.

>> For help planning your trip to any of Scotland’s stunning regions, head to visitscotland.com